Characteristics...

There are three principle characteristics that sum up an autopoietic system. First, they exhibit self-organization in the spontaneous emergence of new structure and behavior. Next, they demonstrate adaptation via internal feedback loops. And finally, their affairs can only be described mathematically by non-linear equations.

A magnificent example of an autopoietic system is the biological cell. Given that, I highly recommend the illustrated guide The Way Life Works by Mahlon Hoagland and Bert Dodson. You will not walk away feeling insignificant as some science elicits.

A subtle but important point in the definition of autopoiesis is that an autopoietic network is not a set of fixed relations among static components, like the development of a crystal. Rather it is a set of relations among processes of production. This production continually regenerates its very self in maintaining a stable organization. If the processes stop, so does the organization.

Mathematically, autopoietic systems operate on the "edge of chaos" as envisioned in non-linear dynamics of Chaos Theory. This is far from the entropic equilibrium of linear thermodynamics. In fact, the autopoietic network is constantly drawing from the external environment to maintain its organizational stability. This distinction is fascinating in its own right, considering equilibrium and stability are commonly equated with one another.

The non-linear connections are checked by internal feedback loops across processes. Without this balancing effect, exponential runaways would ensue, threatening the whole.

I've been frustrated in the past with finding "purpose". I kinda chuckle now. Purpose to me appears to be its own adaptive feedback loop, defying a cast answer. “Being” is a more practical focus, while purpose divines its way.